Staten Islanders voice dismay at proposed hike in water rates

Last night's public hearing on the latest increase in water rates hewed closely to the script, with most in attendance decrying the proposal, wondering how a drop in water consumption can possibly justify a hike, and everyone leaving with the sinking feeling that the double-digit boost is etched in stone.

The hearing at the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook, attracted just 22 Islanders, a considerable drop-off from the 70-plus who vehemently opposed last year's 14.5 percent increase. Some complained that the hearing was poorly advertised.

"I think this shows you guys [the city Water Board] have won," said a distressed City Councilman James Oddo (R-Mid-Island/Brooklyn), surveying the empty seats.

The city says the 14 percent hike is needed because revenues are down due to the recession, coupled with an unprecedented 6 percent drop in water usage.

Regardless of the low turnout, those who showed spoke loudly and clearly against a hike that many said would buffet homeowners, senior citizens and householders already saddled with higher taxes.

City Comptroller William Thompson, a mayoral hopeful, said that the hike would be especially onerous for the Island's single-family homeowners, whose property taxes have increased 16 percent over the last three years.

Thompson outlined a multipoint plan to help the Water Board address rising costs while possibly creating savings for taxpayers.

Councilman Vincent Ignizio (R-South Shore) said he finds it jaw-dropping that city, state and federal governments will devise ways to "keep people in their homes and then sock them with other increases like property taxes, sales taxes, water rates and whatnot."

He urged all parties to work together to "come up with a viable solution" that will keep water prices down.

Some speakers came prepared with solutions, including changes in the Water Board's operations; equity for South Shore residents who lack sewers, and breaks for those on fixed incomes.

Linda Baran, president of the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, said the increase in rates will hurt many of the Island's small businesses.

The idea of effectively penalizing ratepayers for conserving water seemed a particular sore point. "I never in all my life as a public servant heard that too much conservation is a bad thing," said Megan Devereaux, chief of staff for Borough President James Molinaro.

There will be public hearings in each of the other boroughs. The board is expected to vote at its May 15 meeting, with the higher rates taking effect July 1.